Landing Run/Roll
Landing run or landing roll is the distance an aircraft travels from the point of touchdown until it comes to a complete stop. It is one component of the total landing distance — the other being the approach and flare distance. Landing distance figures in the POH assume a specific set of conditions.
Factors Affecting Landing Roll
- Touchdown speed: The primary variable — distance varies with the square of speed; 10% excess speed = 21% more stopping distance
- Braking technique: Maximum braking requires threshold airspeed, smooth touchdown, prompt brake application
- Surface condition: Wet, icy, or contaminated runways dramatically increase stopping distance
- Wind: Headwind reduces ground speed at touchdown; tailwind increases it
- Altitude and temperature: Higher density altitude = faster ground speed at the same IAS
- Weight: Heavier aircraft carry more kinetic energy — longer stopping distance
POH Landing Distance Figures
Published landing distances in the POH assume a stabilized approach at the correct speed, crossing the threshold at 50 ft AGL, prompt application of brakes, and dry, paved runway. Add a safety factor of 1.5× (or per operator policy) for actual runway required. On contaminated runways, factors from the aircraft flight manual must be applied.
Related Terms
See also: Runway, Density Altitude, Gross Weight.